Mean Platelet Volume
Understanding Mean Platelet Volume
What is Mean Platelet Volume?
A Mean Platelet Volume test helps identify the average size of platelets in the blood. This test is a key indicator of conditions affecting platelets, such as bleeding disorders, bone marrow diseases, etc. It is often done as part of a complete blood count test that also measures other types of blood cells.
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells that help the blood to clot at an injury site and prevent excessive bleeding. An MPV test focuses on platelet size and provides insights into an individual’s blood-clotting ability. Abnormal levels of MPV can indicate a variety of health conditions, including platelet disorders, autoimmune diseases, liver disease, and certain types of cancer. High levels of MPV may indicate an increased risk of clots, whereas low levels may be associated with a higher risk of bleeding.
A Mean Platelet Volume test alone may not help diagnose a disorder. Therefore, this test is often used in addition to platelet count and other tests to reach a diagnosis. No special preparation is required for an MPV test; eat or drink as per your daily routine.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition and formulate your overall treatment plan.
What is Mean Platelet Volume used for?
A Mean Platelet Volume test can be done:
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As part of a complete blood count test to monitor your overall health.
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In case of signs and symptoms of bleeding disorders, such as easy bruising and prolonged bleeding.
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To detect or monitor diseases affecting platelets, such as dengue or inflammatory diseases.
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If you have nosebleeds, unexplained bruising, and small, red/purple spots on the skin.
What does Mean Platelet Volume measure?
An MPV test measures the average size of the platelets in your blood. Platelets are disk-shaped tiny cells originating from large cells known as megakaryocytes, which are found in the bone marrow. After the platelets are formed, they are released into the blood circulation. Their average life span is 7-10 days.
Platelets help stop bleeding whenever there is an injury or trauma to a tissue or blood vessel by adhering and accumulating at the injury site, and by releasing chemical compounds that stimulate the gathering of more platelets. After these steps, a loose platelet plug is formed at the site of injury, and this process is known as primary hemostasis. These activated platelets support the coagulation pathway that involves a series of steps including the sequential activation of clotting factors; this process is known as secondary hemostasis. After this, there is a formation of fibrin strands that form a mesh incorporated into and around the platelet plug. This mesh strengthens and stabilizes the blood clot so that it remains in place until the injury heals. After healing, other factors come into play and break the clot down so that it gets removed. In case the platelets are not sufficient in number or are not functioning properly, a stable clot might not form. These unstable clots can result in an increased risk of excessive bleeding.
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mean Platelet Volume
Frequently Asked Questions about Mean Platelet Volume
Q. Which diseases can an MPV test detect?
Q. What does it mean if my MPV levels are high?
Q. How is an MPV test done?
Q. Is there any risk associated with an MPV test?
References
- Schmoeller D, Picarelli MM, Paz Munhoz T, at al. Mean platelet volume and immature platelet fraction in autoimmune disorders. Frontiers in medicine. 2017 Sep 6;4:146. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2017.00146/full
- Lokwani DP. The ABC of CBC: Interpretation of Complete Blood Count & Histograms. 1st ed. Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013.
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